Sandy Roskilly killed trying to stop domestic violence, brother says

DENVER (KUSA) - Sandy Roskilly, 47, died after being shot Friday, and for the first time on Sunday her family spoke about the woman's life.

Dennis Campbell, Roskilly's brother, says he believes Roskilly was shot on her porch when she tried to help a neighbor during a domestic dispute.

"In her last moments, she was doing what she wanted to do. [She was] trying to reach out to a neighbor that was in trouble," Campbell said.

Campbell says Roskilly knew her next door neighbors had marital problems, including domestic violence. Police say the man who killed her shot another woman and set out homemade bombs in the neighborhood.

Court documents show marital problems date back to 2003, when the husband, Daniel Abeyta, threatened to kill the family and went at his wife with a knife. Campbell says his sister would console the woman, who owns the house next door, when she and Abeyta would fight.

"Growing up she was basically the same way. She always wanted to be a friend to everybody she met," Campbell said.

Investigators say Daniel Abeyta shot the woman and Roskilly. As police closed in, Abeyta shot at a propane tank and police shot him. At last check, Abeyta was in critical condition.

"I was actually on my way over to see my sister at the time," Campbell said.

Campbell was on his way to visit, but got stuck in traffic. He never saw his sister alive again.

"In my mind, I just wish I had been there a little sooner. But, again, you never know," Campbell said.

The family says they appreciate all of the outpouring of support for Roskilly, but at this point they just need time and space to heal.

Roskilly has an autistic son. Her family isn't sure who will now take care of him.

They have started a victim's fund for called "Sandra Roskilly Fund" with Citywide Banks on Hampden Avenue in Denver. The phone number listed is 303-365-3773.